Discussions By Condition: Medical Stories

Blocked Infierior Vena Cava

I had a Simon Nitinol (not a greenfield) filter placed in my infierior vena cava in 1998. I had 3 pulmonary embolisms and experienced several DVT's (blood clots) which ruined the veins in my legs and blocked my infierior vena cava completely. Because of this I have little veinous flow in my lower extremeties. To complicated matters worse is I am a paraplegic and cannot exercise with my lower body. I have gross adema (swelling) in my legs and thighs. This has also brought on additional weight which has made me a diabetic. To further complicate things I am insulin resistant and have to consume more than 400 units of insulin a day which has increased my weight to over 400 lbs. I have had bilateral cellulitis several times and have really used alot of antibiotics and am wearing them out. I am 53 years old and want to live to see my grandchildren grow up.

I was hoping someone out there can help me find a good doctor or someone that can offer me some hope. I was told that in order to correct this problem I would have to undergo an operation which harbors a 25% chance of killing me. I am a Viet Nam Veteran and have Medicare but no other insurances. Someone please help me...:( :confused: